The DP List: Top 6 Virginia beaches for family fun

Summer temperatures are here and it's time to break out the sand bucket and shovel to head to the beach. Here are six family-friendly Peninsula beaches where you can do more than take a quick dip.

Buckroe Beach

The largest of the Peninsula beaches, there is nearly a mile of clean sand for stretching out and building castles. Lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Day to Labor Day, and public restrooms are available during the summer months, as well. Beach-goers can rent kayaks and paddle boats, and little ones who tire of the sand and water can play on a nearby playground. Those who plan to stay all day or celebrate a special occasion can rent one of the three shelters. Dogs are not allowed on the beach during summer months.

Location: Pembroke Avenue and Mallory Street, Hampton. There is free parking in two beach lots and on the street. Call 850-5116 for more information.

Huntington Park Beach

Water is shallow on this James River beach, making it a popular destination for families. The nearby Fort Fun playground is a hot spot for little ones, too, although it's best to go in the cooler morning hours. Lifeguards are on duty at the beach from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and there are public restrooms, along with a concession stand.

In the nearby park, children can fish off of a children's pier that extends into a freshwater lake. There are picnic shelters, ball fields and tennis courts, along with the nearby Virginia War Museum if you need an air-conditioned break.

Location: At the base of the James River Bridge off of Mercury Boulevard, Newport News. Parking is free in a beach parking lot. Call 886-7912.

Fort Monroe Beach

Areas along the Chesapeake Bay are now open to the public, including a small beach near the former community center. Lifeguards are available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on what is now known as Outlook Beach, a good spot for wading and hunting for seashells.

The Paradise Ocean Club has a private beach for members, which includes chairs, umbrellas, a snack bar and restaurant. Memberships are available for $500 a family.

North Beach, formally known as Dog Beach, is no longer open to the public.

Location: on the former military base, with access through Phoebus. There are no public restrooms, but parking is free.

Gloucester Point Beach

In addition to a sandy beach, this York River beach also features a beach house with restrooms, a concession stand and outdoor shower. There is a nearby playground, picnic tables, gazebo and volleyball nets.

Anyone can drop a line from the fishing pier, no license is required. The beach is also home to several special concert events and a Fourth of July fireworks display.

This neighborhood beach has 2,200 feet of shoreline and an attached park with a playground, basketball courts, tennis courts, picnic facilities, fishing pier and a public restroom.

Don't forget the park's Interpretive Center, which highlights native wildlife and ecosystems along the harbor. The center is open on the weekends.

Swimming is allowed, but there are no lifeguards on duty.

Location: near the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and Sixth Street, Newport News. Call 886-7912 for more information.

Yorktown Beach

One of the smaller shorelines in town, Yorktown Beach is still a popular spot for families because the water is so calm. Surrounded by shops and restaurants, this beach is a nice spot to spend the entire day. Moms with strollers also will appreciate the smooth, paved sidewalks. Ben & Jerry's is also a popular spot for tikes who have spent the day in the sun.

There are no lifeguards on duty. There is a public pier — no fishing license required — and public restrooms are available.

Location: along Water Street, Yorktown. Call 890-3300 for more information.